By Mia Perez, Public Relations Intern
Traveling the world is an amazing experience. From creating lasting memories to exploring new cities and immersing in diverse cultures, the benefits are endless. Every year, we encourage students to take the leap and study abroad on their own. However, we often discover groups of friends who are ready to embark on this adventure together. This summer, a group of Phi Mu's at Georgia College and State University decided to create memories that would last a lifetime by going on our DIRECT Cape Town program together!
Maddy, Megan, Summer and Gabriele come from different hometowns in Georgia. From Valdosta to Savannah to Pickens, these girls formed a friendship at GCSU and never looked back. Inspired by their mutual friend in their sorority who studied abroad with us last summer and returned with raving reviews, this group of girls decided it was their turn. From their university to South Africa, they hopped on a plane and headed across the world to join us on our DIRECT Cape Town Session 1 Program.
DIRECT Cape Town was a top choice for these ladies. Maddy shared how easy their decision was saying, “Cape Town had so much to offer and so many opportunities we wouldn’t be able to experience anywhere else! There were so many adventures we got to do and I’ve had to make a whole new bucket list because of how many items I checked off!" And doing so alongside your best friends is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. From zip lines, to skydiving and walking with elephants, they decided they'd take advantage of EVERY activity on the itinerary! Megan mentioned, “Enjoy every moment because it’s over before you know it! Our two weeks went by so fast but I feel like we took as much advantage as possible to experience everything we could!”
The program was more than just thrilling adventures for them; it was a profound presence of cultural immersion. In Cape Town, they not only embraced the local culture but also bonded with their LeadAbroad family. Gabriele’s favorite memory, which was unanimously shared by all four girls, stands out as a highlight of the trip. “The welcome dinner at GOLD restaurant was unbelievable. We experienced South African food as well as the fun entertainment! The amount of times we would encounter a group of people just singing and dancing in the town of Cape Town was unlike anything I had ever experienced, and truly made for the best memories.” They had the incredible opportunity of adding to their close knit group, and building something even bigger in Cape Town with fellow travelers.
Maddy, Megan, Summer, and Gabriele deepened their friendship on a global scale, and we are thrilled to share their inspiring journey with you. Summer put it best saying, "Together, we explored the countless adventures and learning experiences Cape Town had to offer. One phrase that stuck with me during this memorable experience was to “just do it”! Try new foods, get out of your comfort zone, and travel with your best friends too!"
Nothing will bring your group closer than a trip around the world. If you have a group interested in traveling next summer, click the link below.